The question for today for the assembled gurus is:
How much structural integrity does the aluminum rub rail and associated rivets provide to the hull and deck joint? I am thinking to remove and replace with a PVC rub rail. I probably could replace the rivets.

Don't know specifically, there are others here with way more knowledge as you will see. I have removed 1 screw from mine and put it back in so there is something holding the nut or a backing plate. I would wait for greater knowledge the guys here have helped me a lot

I did remove 1 screw from the bow handle very carefully and was able to thread it back in so I may pluck up the courage to do then one at a time. The alternative would be to unscrew until nearly out and support the hardware on small dowels cut to length and as you say tape up the threads to stop...

Moving along with the boat, started removing hardware from the deck for refinishing. When I undo the screws on the bow handle and the stern traveler I notice what seems to be machine threads as opposed to screw threads. The question I have are there captive nuts on the underside of the deck? It...

I would like to thank everyone who has offered help with my little project. I am doing this for my daughter in TX and taking it down at Christmas from SC so I want it to be as good as new so she can enjoy it and not have much to do for a while other than enjoy it.
As for going sailing, I have...